Virgin and Child with St. John the Baptist 19th century

Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux created this terracotta sculpture, Virgin and Child with St. John the Baptist, in France. Carpeaux brings a fresh interpretation to a classic religious theme, one which reflects the changing social and cultural values of 19th-century France. The figures aren't idealized or distant, but feel more human and relatable. Their poses and expressions show real tenderness and emotion. This shift towards naturalism was part of a wider trend in French art, influenced by the rise of scientific thinking and a growing interest in depicting everyday life. To understand Carpeaux’s work better, we can look to the art institutions of the time, like the École des Beaux-Arts, where he trained. We can also explore the philosophical and political ideas that were circulating in France, such as positivism and republicanism, to shed light on Carpeaux's approach to art. By exploring these resources, we can more fully appreciate this sculpture as a reflection of its time.